BUZEKI TAKES THE HELM AS NEW KCCA EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

The Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) welcomed new leadership as Hajat Sharifah Buzeki was sworn in as Executive Director alongside Benon Moses Kigenyi as Deputy Executive Director.

The event marked a transition from the acting leadership of Frank Rusa and Robert Nowere, who handed over the reins to their successors in a ceremony graced by several dignitaries.

Lucy Nakyobe, the Head of Public Service and Secretary to the Cabinet, presided over the swearing-in ceremony that took place at the Mayor’s Parlor on January 8.

Buzeki took the oath of office at exactly 10:18 a.m., followed by Kigenyi at 10:20 a.m.

In her inaugural address, Buzeki expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve, commending President Museveni for her appointment and pledging to lead with “dedication, humility, and diligence.”

Outlining her vision for the city, Buzeki promised to tackle key challenges including waste management, urban planning, and public transportation.

“Kampala has tremendous potential. I aim to fast-track the acquisition of land for waste disposal, encourage innovative waste management strategies, and ensure timely payments for city cleaners,” she said. She also emphasized the need to digitalize public services, strengthen urban planning, improve security, and foster inclusivity.

Acknowledging the pressing issue of corruption, Buzeki vowed to strengthen anti-corruption measures and automate services to ensure transparency.

“We must make corruption a high-risk venture for our employees and everyone else,” she declared. She further committed to maintaining Kampala as a clean and green city while revitalizing its economy and exploring ways to widen the revenue base.

In her closing remarks, Buzeki called on all stakeholders, including KCCA staff, to work diligently alongside her to unlock the city’s potential. “Together, we can transform Kampala into an enjoyable, inclusive, and prosperous city,” she affirmed.

The Minister for Kampala Capital City and Metropolitan Affairs, Minsa Kabanda, urged the new leaders to focus on serving the people of Kampala, emphasizing their transformative roles in addressing challenges such as poor roads, drainage systems, and garbage management.

The Lord Mayor Erias Lukwago also congratulated Buzeki and Kigenyi on their appointments, pledging his support for their leadership.

Outgoing acting Executive Director Frank Rusa reflected on his 111-day tenure, thanking his family, President Museveni, and the KCCA staff for their support.

He highlighted the complexities of managing Kampala, which the new management should brace for, particularly in governance, and called for continued collaboration between the technical and political wings of KCCA.

“Contrary to common belief, it is possible for both wings to work together for the common good,” he noted.

Rusa also identified chronic underfunding, solid waste management, and human resource challenges as critical issues that need to be addressed. He expressed confidence in the new leadership’s ability to navigate these complexities, urging all stakeholders to lend their support.

Nakyobe recognized the contributions of the outgoing leadership and reminded the incoming team of the challenges ahead.

“Your roles are not only about leadership but also transformation,” Nakyobe said.

Yunus Kakande, Permanent Secretary in the Office of the President, described Kampala as one of East Africa’s most complex cities to manage and advised the new leaders to work closely with the KCCA Council members, the Lord Mayor and ministers to achieve their goals.

The ceremony ushered in a new chapter for KCCA as Buzeki and Kigenyi embark on their leadership journey, tasked with steering Kampala toward sustainable urban development and enhanced service delivery.